Business energy rollover contract rates: how to avoid them
If your business electricity or gas contract is ending, your supplier may move you onto a costly rollover (also called an out-of-contract or deemed-style extension). Compare whole-of-market business energy options with EnergyPlus and lock in a better rate before you’re rolled over.
- Check your renewal window and stop rollover rates before they start
- Compare business electricity, gas or dual fuel from multiple UK suppliers
- Switch with minimal disruption—keep supply running as normal
- Support for single sites, multi-sites, landlords and SMEs
Whole-of-market comparison service. We’ll use your business details to find available deals and help you avoid expensive rollover renewal rates.
Compare business energy now and prevent rollover renewal rates
Rollover contracts can start automatically when your fixed-term business energy agreement ends—often with higher unit rates and standing charges than a negotiated renewal. The easiest way to avoid rollover is to start comparing quotes before your notice window closes.
Use the form to request whole-of-market quotes for:
- Business electricity (single-rate, day/night, or profile-based tariffs)
- Business gas (fixed options and flexible approaches where available)
- Dual fuel (one supplier for both fuels where it makes sense)
Tip: If you’re not sure when your contract ends, check your last bill or renewal letter. We can still help—submit your details and we’ll guide you on the next steps.
What you’ll need (takes a minute)
- Postcode and business name
- Current supplier (if known)
- Meter numbers (MPAN for electricity / MPRN for gas) if available
- Estimated usage or a recent bill (helpful, not required)
Get quotes (avoid rollover)
Complete the form and we’ll compare available business energy deals. Primary goal: help you avoid expensive rollover rates.
Important: Business energy contracts, notice periods and rollover terms vary by supplier. If you’re close to renewal, act early to avoid being moved onto higher rates.
Why businesses get caught by rollover rates (and how EnergyPlus helps)
Notice windows are missed
Many suppliers require notice before the end date (often weeks). If it’s missed, you may be rolled onto higher renewal terms automatically.
Renewal quotes aren’t compared
Rollover pricing can be significantly higher than market-available fixed deals. Comparing across suppliers helps you avoid paying more than you need to.
Multi-site complexity
With multiple meters/sites, renewals can land at different times. We can help you align renewals and reduce admin—without disrupting supply.
Out-of-contract periods
If a contract ends and no new agreement is in place, you can end up on expensive stop-gap rates while you scramble to fix it.
Limited time to negotiate
Leaving it too late reduces options. Early comparison improves the chance of securing a competitive unit rate and standing charge.
Support through the switch
We’ll help you understand the quote, contract length and renewal timing—so you can avoid rollover in future too.
What is a business energy rollover contract?
A business energy rollover contract is when your supplier automatically moves you onto a new set of rates and terms at the end of your fixed agreement—usually because no renewal decision was made in time. It’s typically not the cheapest option, and the new rates can be set at the supplier’s discretion within the contract terms.
Rollover scenarios vary, but they often look like this:
- Fixed term ends (e.g., 12/24/36 months).
- Notice period closes and you don’t renew or switch.
- Supplier applies rollover rates (often higher unit rates/standing charges).
- Business pays more until a new contract is agreed.
Why rollover rates can be higher
- They’re not “shopping-around” rates—there’s no competitive pressure.
- Short-term pricing risk may be built into the unit rate.
- Standing charges can increase alongside unit rates.
- Your consumption pattern may not be optimised (e.g., day/night split).
Why businesses miss renewals
- Renewal letters go to an old email address or accounts inbox.
- Contract end dates aren’t logged in a central calendar.
- Multiple meters renew at different times.
- Decision-making sits with busy directors or finance teams.
How to avoid business energy rollover rates (practical UK checklist)
Avoiding rollover is mostly about timing, information, and having options. Use the steps below whether you’re a single-site SME, a landlord with multiple supplies, or a multi-site operator.
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Find your contract end date and notice period.
Check your latest bill, welcome pack or renewal communication. If you can’t find it quickly, submit the quote form and we’ll help you identify what’s needed.
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Start comparing before the renewal window closes.
Earlier comparison usually means more choice on contract length and structure. It also gives you time to review terms properly.
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Compare the full cost: unit rate + standing charge + contract length.
A lower unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge. Look at total expected cost for your usage profile.
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Confirm the right meter details (MPAN/MPRN) where possible.
Accurate meter data reduces delays and helps suppliers price correctly—especially for larger usage or multi-site portfolios.
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Lock in the new contract and keep a renewal diary.
Once you switch, set reminders well before the end date so you avoid future rollover periods.
If you think you’re already on rollover: you may still be able to switch to a better fixed deal. Start the quote request above, or jump back to Compare quotes.
Rollover vs fixed business contract: what usually changes
Exact terms vary by supplier, but the table below shows the typical differences businesses see when moving from a negotiated fixed deal to rollover pricing.
| Feature | Fixed business contract (agreed) | Rollover/out-of-contract style rates |
|---|---|---|
| Unit rate (p/kWh) | Agreed upfront based on market conditions and your usage profile. | Often higher and less competitive because you haven’t negotiated. |
| Standing charge | May be lower or better balanced with the unit rate. | Can increase, impacting businesses with lower consumption. |
| Contract length | Typically 12–36 months depending on supplier and requirements. | May be short or rolling, but with unfavourable pricing. |
| Budget certainty | Higher—pricing is clearer for forecasting. | Lower—costs may be higher than expected and hard to plan around. |
| Ability to shop around | Yes—compare suppliers to find a suitable deal. | Often delayed because the business is reacting after rollover begins. |
Note: Naming and terms differ by supplier. If you share your current supplier and end date (if known), we’ll help you understand your position and options.
Common mistakes that lead to expensive rollover rates
Assuming the supplier will offer a good renewal
Supplier renewals can be convenient, but they’re not automatically the best value. Comparing whole-of-market quotes gives you leverage and visibility.
Only checking the unit rate
Standing charges can significantly affect total cost—especially for low-usage sites, seasonal businesses, or vacant/low-occupancy premises.
Leaving it until the final week
Late action reduces options and can create an “out-of-contract” period. Start early to avoid being forced into rollover pricing.
Not keeping meter info to hand
Missing MPAN/MPRN details can slow down accurate quoting. If you don’t have them, don’t worry—submit what you can and we’ll guide you.
Good practice: Add contract end dates to your finance calendar and set reminders for 10–12 weeks beforehand. It’s one of the most reliable ways to avoid rollover renewals.
Business energy rollover FAQs
Are rollover contract rates the same as deemed rates?
They’re often confused. “Deemed” arrangements can apply when a site takes supply without agreeing a contract (for example, moving into premises). “Rollover” commonly refers to what happens after a fixed term ends. Suppliers use different terms—if you tell us your supplier and situation, we’ll help clarify.
Can I switch if I’m already on rollover rates?
In many cases, yes. The key is understanding your current terms, notice requirements, and any switching restrictions. Start with the quote form and we’ll help you explore available options.
Will switching disrupt my business supply?
No. Your gas and electricity still come through the same pipes and wires. A switch changes the supplier and billing—not the physical supply to your premises.
When should I start comparing to avoid rollover?
The safe approach is to begin well before your contract ends so you’re not rushed. Suppliers often have notice requirements, and internal approvals can take time—especially for multi-site businesses.
Do you help with multi-site or landlord portfolios?
Yes. If you have multiple meters or properties, we can support quoting across sites, help organise meter details, and identify a practical renewal approach to reduce rollover exposure.
What if I don’t have my MPAN/MPRN?
You can still submit the form. A recent bill often contains the meter details, but we can advise what to gather next to secure accurate quotes.
Looking for broader guidance? Explore business energy options and switching support.
Trusted support for UK businesses
Whole-of-market comparison
We compare available business energy options across multiple UK suppliers, helping you avoid being limited to a single renewal offer.
Clear quote breakdowns
Unit rates, standing charges, contract length and key terms—so you can choose with confidence and reduce rollover risk.
Switching support
We help you progress the switch and keep things on track—especially helpful when you’re close to contract end dates.
What businesses say
“We were about to roll onto higher renewal rates. EnergyPlus helped us compare options quickly and secure a better fixed deal for our electricity.”
“Multi-site renewals were a headache. Getting quotes in one place made it easier to avoid out-of-contract periods across our locations.”
Testimonials are representative feedback. Rates depend on site details, meter setup, usage and market conditions.
Ready to avoid rollover rates?
Submit your details and get whole-of-market business energy quotes. Acting early is the simplest way to prevent expensive rollover renewal pricing.
- Electricity, gas or dual fuel
- Single site or multi-site
- Guidance on notice periods and switching timelines
No disruption to supply. Quotes depend on meter details, usage and supplier availability.
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